The Best Bites for the Beach

You probably already know to bring sunscreen and inflatable rafts to the beach, but don’t forget to pack (or plan for) some delicious beach bites. You’ll find an assortment of eateries along Gulf Drive that offer to-go orders, or you can plan ahead and pack your cooler with some tasty treats. Trust us, once your toes touch the sand, the last thing you’ll want to do is leave—and that’s where your to-go order or your cooler will score major points with the family.

The ‘Pub Sub’

There are few things more ‘Floridian’ than stopping by a Publix supermarket for their famous submarine sandwiches, or ‘Pub sub’ as the locals call it. Follow your nose to the deli, where you’ll find house-baked bread, fresh veggies, delicious deli meats and a variety cheeses. You can completely customize each sandwich while you watch, or order from the menu for popular preferences, like the Chicken Tender Sub. Be sure to grab some sides, like potato chips and drinks, then a bag of ice to keep everything fresh in your cooler. Trust us, once you enjoy a Pub Sub while lounging under your beach umbrella, you’ll understand why this is a Floridian favorite.

Coastal Charcuterie

Browse through any party planning Pinterest board and you’re destined to come across charcuterie, the popular way to serve cheeses, meats, crackers, fruits (and more) on a board. Of course, not many people we know travel with their own charcuterie board, so that’s where the Olive Oil Outpost comes in. This popular shop on Pine Avenue is the perfect place to order some charcuterie for your beachside basking. And when you stop by to pick-up your board, be sure to browse the shop for some spectacular extra virgin olive oil (the house specialty!) or other delicious accoutrements. And since you’re going to fall in love with nearly everything at the shop, you’ll be happy to know they offer flat-rate shipping directly to your house!

Deli Delivery

Imagine lounging atop your beachside chaise lounge and having a freshly-prepared, gourmet deli sandwich delivered directly to you. Yep, it’s only possible thanks to the cheerful staff at Scott’s Deli, who will deliver to pretty much anywhere on the island. This place is known for their spectacular sandwiches, friendly service, and their ‘always fresh, always homemade’ food. Proprietor Scott Mason spent years perfecting his craft as an executive chef at a country club, only to fulfil his lifelong dream of owning a sandwich shop on Anna Maria Island. From breakfast to lunch, sandwiches to tacos (and more), you’ll always find something to satisfy your cravings.

Pancakes In Paradise

If you’re planning a morning beach excursion to Manatee Public Beach, be sure to bring your appetite. As you trek toward the lapping waves of the Gulf of Mexico you’ll probably notice the aromatic aroma of fresh pancakes on the griddle—and trust is when we say the smell is virtually irresistible. Anna Maria Island Beach Café has a ‘dining room’ that is literally on the beach, allowing you to saunter through the sand to place your AYCE pancake order. For the un-initiated, AYCE is all-you-can-eat, so that means endless pancakes. With a belly full of fluffy pancakes, it’s time to enjoy what you came here for: enjoying the warm sun and balmy breezes of Bradenton Beach.